
Marlowe Theatre Canterbury
A modern theatre in historic Canterbury, showcasing touring musicals, pantomimes, plays, and more.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Panto season is a must-see!

Marlowe Theatre Canterbury
Best Time
Panto season is a must-see!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A modern theatre in historic Canterbury, showcasing touring musicals, pantomimes, plays, and more.
"A lovely newer building among the historic area, offering comfortable seats and great shows."

🎯 Ask for a Seat Cushion
If you're on the shorter side, ask for a comfy cushion to improve your view!
🎟️ Book Tickets Early
Popular shows, especially pantos, sell out quickly. Book in advance!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pantomime Magic
Main Auditorium
Experience the festive spirit with spectacular pantomimes like Snow White and Aladdin, packed with thrills and laughs.

West End Musicals
Main Auditorium
Catch acclaimed touring productions of hit musicals such as Grease, School of Rock, and Joseph.

Diverse Performing Arts
Main Auditorium & Studio
From Shakespearean plays to contemporary dance and stand-up comedy, the Marlowe offers a varied program.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Comfort is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Ask for a Seat Cushion
If you're on the shorter side, ask for a comfy cushion to improve your view!
🎟️ Book Tickets Early
Popular shows, especially pantos, sell out quickly. Book in advance!
🚗 Accessible Parking
Disabled parking spots are available near the entrance. Slopes also available for mobility issues.
🍽️ Enjoy Pre-Theatre Dining
The Green Room restaurant offers delicious meals perfect for a pre-show treat.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Ask for a Seat Cushion
If you're on the shorter side, ask for a comfy cushion to improve your view!
🎟️ Book Tickets Early
Popular shows, especially pantos, sell out quickly. Book in advance!
🚗 Accessible Parking
Disabled parking spots are available near the entrance. Slopes also available for mobility issues.
🍽️ Enjoy Pre-Theatre Dining
The Green Room restaurant offers delicious meals perfect for a pre-show treat.
📱 Check Show Schedules
Visit their website for the latest touring productions and performance times.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Marlowe Theatre for its modern facilities, friendly staff, and excellent selection of touring productions, from musicals to pantomimes. While generally comfortable, some shorter patrons suggest using provided seat cushions for optimal viewing. The theatre's accessibility features and dining options are also highlighted as positives.
"Love going to the theatre... because I'm short, sometimes I struggle to see among the heads but yesterday I tried one of those cushions they provide and it was much better and SO comfy. Treat yourself to a night out! Oh! And we had dinner at the green room and it was delicious 😋"
Mireia Fenoll
"The Marlowe theatre is a lovely newer building among the historic area around it. There are a few disabled parking spots just outside the entrance.
There was a spot selling merch for the show (Rocky Horror) and a bar.
The seats were comfortable and the stage was large and designed well.
The show was great and well done everybody!
Staff were very friendly. Toilets are clean."
Vanessa Becker
"Lovely Theatre. Friendly staff. Comfortable seats. Bat out of Hell is an amazing show. There is so much talent on stage. We saw it being filmed for Cinemas."
James Mills
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Marlowe Theatre is centrally located in Canterbury. It's easily accessible by public transport, with the Canterbury West and Canterbury East train stations a short walk away. Numerous bus routes also serve the city centre.
While there are limited disabled parking spots directly outside, several public car parks are available nearby. The nearest are the multi-storey car parks at St. George's and Whitefriars.
Yes, many local bus routes stop in Canterbury city centre, which is a short walk from the theatre. Check local bus timetables for specific routes and times.
The theatre is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring slopes for mobility issues and accessible parking.
Many visitors travel from London by train, which is a quick and convenient option. Driving is also possible, but parking can be challenging in the city centre.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased directly from the Marlowe Theatre's official website, by phone, or in person at the box office. Booking in advance is highly recommended for popular shows.
The box office typically opens a few hours before performances and has set daytime hours. It's best to check the Marlowe Theatre's website for the most up-to-date box office opening times.
Refund and exchange policies vary depending on the show and how far in advance you request it. It's advisable to check the specific terms and conditions when booking your tickets.
Discounts may be available for group bookings, students, seniors, or those with disabilities. Check the theatre's website or contact the box office for details on current offers.
Latecomers may not be admitted until a suitable break in the performance, and seating cannot be guaranteed. It's always best to arrive at least 15-20 minutes before the show starts.
🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience
The Marlowe Theatre hosts a wide variety of performances, including major West End musicals, pantomimes, plays, ballet, opera, comedy, and live music.
Generally, the seats are considered comfortable. However, some patrons suggest using the provided seat cushions for added comfort, especially for longer shows.
The theatre offers clean restrooms, a bar area, and merchandise stalls for shows. There's also a restaurant, The Green Room, for pre-theatre dining.
Photography and videography are generally not permitted during performances to avoid disturbing other audience members and infringing on copyright. Check with theatre staff for specific policies.
The Marlowe Theatre is a modern building that offers a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere, often praised for its friendly staff and excellent stage design.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Marlowe Theatre has a bar serving drinks and snacks. They also have a restaurant called The Green Room, which offers pre-theatre dining options.
The Green Room offers a delicious menu, often featuring contemporary dishes suitable for a pre-theatre meal. Reviews suggest it's a great dining experience.
Typically, outside food and beverages are not allowed inside the auditorium. It's best to consume these before entering or purchase them from the theatre's concessions.
While specific menus can change, most theatre bars and restaurants offer a selection of vegetarian options. It's advisable to check with the venue directly for detailed dietary information.
For popular shows or weekend performances, booking a table at The Green Room well in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment.
📸 📸 Photography
You can usually take photos in the foyer and public areas of the Marlowe Theatre, but photography and videography are strictly prohibited during performances.
The theatre's modern architecture and the vibrant atmosphere before a show can make for interesting photos. The exterior also offers a nice contrast to Canterbury's historic surroundings.
The best times for photos are before the show starts, during the interval, or after the performance when the foyer is bustling.
No, absolutely not. Taking photos or videos during a performance is not allowed and can disrupt the show for everyone.
While you can share photos of the theatre's public spaces, always be mindful of others and avoid capturing images of the performance itself.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For younger audience members who might struggle with sightlines, remember to ask for the complimentary seat cushions available at the theatre. The venue's accessibility features also make it easier for families with strollers or young children to navigate. With a variety of shows and a welcoming atmosphere, the Marlowe Theatre offers a memorable experience for families looking for entertainment in Canterbury.
🎭 Theatre Enthusiasts
Don't overlook the studio theatre, which often features more experimental and contemporary works, offering a different but equally rewarding theatrical experience. Keep an eye on their schedule for special events, guest artists, and unique performances that cater to a discerning audience. Booking tickets early is crucial, as popular shows attract a dedicated following.
♿ Visitors with Mobility Issues
When booking your tickets, it's advisable to inform the box office of any specific accessibility requirements you have. They can help you select the most suitable seats and provide information on any services available to ensure your visit is comfortable and enjoyable.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Hub for Touring Productions
Social media content frequently highlights the excitement surrounding these touring shows, with performers sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses and audience members posting enthusiastic curtain call videos. This buzz contributes to the theatre's reputation as a must-visit destination for theatre lovers. Whether you're a fan of musical theatre, drama, or family-friendly entertainment, the Marlowe Theatre consistently delivers memorable performances that draw crowds from across Kent and beyond.
Accessibility and Comfort for All
Inside, the seating is generally comfortable, but the theatre proactively addresses potential sightline issues. For patrons who are shorter, the theatre provides complimentary seat cushions, a small but significant detail that enhances the viewing experience and has been positively noted by visitors. The staff are frequently commended for their friendliness and helpfulness, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere from the moment you arrive. This focus on guest comfort and support makes the Marlowe Theatre a pleasant and inclusive venue for everyone.
Beyond the Main Stage: Studio Performances
This dual-stage approach means the Marlowe Theatre can cater to a wider audience with diverse tastes. Visitors can find everything from the grand spectacle of a West End musical to the raw energy of a stand-up comedian or the nuanced storytelling of an independent play. The studio performances often reflect current trends in theatre and offer a chance to discover new talent, adding another layer of appeal to the Marlowe's already rich programming.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit